Christmas in London

The idea came about when we were in London for Lee’s 40th birthday trip last November. The Christmas decorations were going up for the season and I was awestruck. Anyone that knows me knows that I am a little obsessed with Christmas. From the music, to the decorations to the food and time with friends and family; I am enamored with all of it. Being in London and walking through department stores like Harrod’s and Selfridges filled me with such childlike excitement that I knew I had to come back and experience Christmas at full tilt. Thus, the plan for London Christmas Vacation 2K17 was born.

Pictures from our London trip in November 2016

Our friends Charlie and Gareth, who live just outside of London, travel every year to Cologne, Germany right before Christmas to check out the Christmas markets. Neither Lee or I have ever been to Germany so naturally, the idea of tagging along on their annual Christmas pilgrimage sounds like a dream come true. We could travel out to London, meet up with them, travel to Germany, have an amazing time, and be home in time for Christmas with our families.

Given everything else we’re going through, it may seem like we’re overextending, but I feel like we need this. As I’ve explained to those who know of our travel plans, if our IVF cycle works, this will be the last time we’ll have an opportunity to visit the UK for quite a while. If our cycle doesn’t work, we’ll need something to look forward to. I can’t think of anything more enjoyable than spending the holiday season in our favorite country with some of our favorite people.

And think about it: If we are pregnant, it’ll be our bump’s first transatlantic vacation. If I’m not, I can drown my sorrows in delicious UK whiskeys and ciders. It’s a win/not quite a win, but somewhat bearable situation, really.

While we wait to see what’s going to happen over the course of the next 9 days, this will be the thing that keeps my thoughts otherwise engaged. And if, for some reason, this round of IVF does not work, this will be what allows me to heal, recharge and come back ready to kick some infertility ass.